First Philippine Republic Day 2024 (Philippines): The initial Philippine Republic Day is annually observed on January 23. After 300 years of Spanish control, Emilio Aguinaldo declared the Philippines independent around 120 years ago, establishing the nation as the first republic in Asia. President Rodrigo Duterte proclaimed this date a national holiday of work in observance of January 23, 1899, in remembrance of the First Philippine Republic, colloquially referred to as the Malolos Republic.
First Philippine Republic Day History
On January 23, the Philippines observes the First Philippine Republic Day, which is termed “Araw ng Republika ng Pilipino” in Tagalog. It is an annual working holiday. Through the signing of Republic Act No. 11014 on April 5, 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte established this day as an annual observance. The day commemorates the inauguration of the First Philippine Republic (also known as the Malolos Republic) at the Barasoain Church in Malolos City, Bulacan, on January 23, 1899, by Revolutionary General Emilio Aguinaldo.
Spain ruled the Philippines for more than three centuries. The Philippine Revolution against the Spanish Empire and the United States’ victory in the Spanish-American War inaugurated the nation’s path to independence between 1896 and 1897. Just days after the United States’ victory at the Battle of Manila Bay on June 12, 1898, Emilio Aguinaldo proclaimed Philippine independence with the Philippine Declaration of Independence and instituted dictatorial governments. On January 23, 1899, the Malolos Constitution, which established the First Philippine Republic, was proclaimed. On April 1, 1901, it came to an untimely end with the apprehension of Aguinaldo and his coercion into swearing allegiance to the United States.
According to Republic Act No. 11014, President Duterte charged the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (N.H.C.P.) and the Department of Education with planning activities and events to commemorate the First Philippine Republic Day. Using this Act, he advocated for the Filipino people to maintain an awareness of the historical event’s significance and to hold in high regard the illustrious and honorable past of their nation.
The First Philippine Republic Day is observed as a non-working holiday in the Philippines, except for public and private establishments, schools, and other enterprises. Nevertheless, the occasion continues to hold immense significance for the Filipino people as a commemoration of bravery, independence, and patriotism.
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FAQs for the First Philippine Republic Day
Who was the first president of the Philippines?
On June 12, 1898, Emilio Aguinaldo presided over the proclamation of Philippine independence from Spanish colonial rule. Additionally, on January 23, 1899, in Malolos, Bulacan, he presided over the ratification of the Malolos Constitution, which replaced the preceding autocratic regime of the Philippines.
What was the First Philippine Republic’s significance?
Liberated from their colonizers, Filipino citizens were permitted to live freely and exercise their fundamental rights during the First Philippine Republic. This government was characterized by the separation of authority among its three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. In addition, it advocated for the preservation of indigenous languages, assisted in the separation of church and state authority, and advanced education.
For what reason is the Malolos Republic historically regarded as the First Philippine Republic?
Spain had exerted dominion over the Philippines for three centuries. The First Philippine Republic, also known as the Malolos Republic, a self-governing state made up entirely of Filipino citizens, came into existence on January 23, 1899.
First Philippine Republic Day 2024 (Philippines) Activities
Honor veterans and national leaders
Let this day be an occasion to honor the valiant patriots who fought for the nation’s independence and to express your patriotism. Peruse historical literature and documents that shed light on the altruistic struggles of individuals who advocated for the liberation of the Filipino people.
Explore historic locations
An additional splendid way to observe First Philippine Republic Day is by embarking on an excursion to significant sites throughout the Philippines. Join the observance of the First Philippine Republic Day and revisit the proclamation of independence at museums and other historically significant structures.
Coordinate unique activities
Given that it is a working holiday, organizations can organize special events. One may utilize vibrant, enlightening billboards to draw attention to the occasion and the historical occurrences. Students may participate in educational activities within institutions that focus on the historical events that led to the proclamation of the First Philippine Republic.
Five Facts Regarding the Philippines
Recognized by royalty
A collection of 7,641 islands, the Philippines are so-called in honor of King Philip II of Spain.
Linguistic diversity in the Philippines
Although approximately 175 languages are spoken in the Philippines, Tagalog-based Filipino and English are the official tongues.
Symbols of the nation
The Sampaguita is the national flower of the Philippines, while the monkey-eating eagle (also known as the Philippine eagle) is the national avian.
Containing volcanoes
Although the Philippines is home to over 200 volcanoes, only 24 of them are currently in an active state.
The export of coconuts
The Philippines is the second-largest exporter and producer of coconuts (called “buko”) in the world, supplying China, Japan, Germany, and the United States with approximately 19.5 million kilograms of coconuts annually.
FIRST PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | January 23 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | January 23 | Thursday |
| 2026 | January 23 | Friday |
| 2027 | January 23 | Saturday |
| 2028 | January 23 | Sunday |
